Volunteers, faith celebrated

Bishop Stephen E. Blaire and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Stockton honored more than 600 volunteer catechists Sept. 29 as part of the worldwide events for the Year of Faith.

Bishop Stephen E. Blaire and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Stockton honored more than 600 volunteer catechists Sept. 29 as part of the worldwide events for the Year of Faith.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI declared a Year of Faith on Oct. 11, 2012, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council.

The celebration included, for the first time, a special Mass with Blaire at the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Stockton, where parish representatives entered with beautiful hand-crafted banners.

All catechists are volunteers. They donate their time to share their faith with children, youth and adults, in their parish communities. About 90 percent of them also hold a full-time job and are full-time parents. Some have been catechists for as long as 40 or more years; for others the Year of Faith is their first year.

These catechists teach children enrolled in public schools; many of them come from low-income families. These men and women not only teach them the faith, but also help them to build up their self-esteem and to affirm their dignity as children of God. When feasible, they also empower them to carry on works of charity with those even less fortunate.

Information: (209) 466-0636

- Information and photos submitted by Sister Gloria De Jesus

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